The curious case of the familiar file
In attempting to manage uncertainty, many companies go to great expense to develop protocols and procedures. Then they set them in stone hoping that compliance…
ViewKeeping the train on the track
On a recent dreary Sunday afternoon, the Frank Sinatra movie Von Ryan’s Express was on TV. At one point, a train driver coupled some train carriages together.
ViewEvery complex project is unique
If it’s not unique, it’s just complicated. The trick is understanding what’s unique and factoring greater resilience into these project elements. For example, if you…
ViewWhat keeps you awake at night?
→ ‘I just want us to deliver what we promised to deliver’—COO of an indy Oil & Gas field operator ($1 billion capital project portfolio YoY).
ViewIs the danger real?
A few weeks ago, a warning light flashed on my dashboard. My brake pads needed attention. Apparently, I could proceed but should ‘drive with caution’.
ViewFurther lessons in knowable risks…
It’s not always the big things that can hang you out to dry. ‘Our proposal is valid for 30 days’ (boilerplate on most supplier bids)…
ViewProjects succeed through craft
In the late Nineties, I was involved in building the first series of dual-activity ultra-deepwater rigs. Faced with flat screens and joysticks, the drillers would…
ViewThe perils of overconfidence
The decision to sanction a large complex project is usually the culmination of a long process of study and analysis. Senior managers have decided to…
ViewHobby horses for courses
Harnessing project mindfulness within your team is a key pillar for achieving a project outcome with the desired ROI. We all have the ability but…
ViewMiserly pursuits
‘Look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves’. It’s nigh on impossible to reach adulthood without this old proverb burning into…
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